TRANSCRIBED FROM THE PINE BLUFF GRAPHIC NOVEMBER 27, 1918, P. 2
I am in a hospital but just fine. Got a machine gun bullet through my right arm, but the wound is not serious, so I am coming on fine now. We have the boche on the run and I hope they stay that way, and this war will soon be over, for it is going to be furious over here this winter, as it is so damp and cold in this country in winter.
The central power is cracking and I hope the good work will keep up.
I have had several letters from home, and you can bet I was glad to get them, as news from home is the sweetest thing we can receive over here. I am glad to know that all at home are well, and you have your raise. I also hope that you will not be drafted, for you have a family, and there are lots of single boys in the states yet. Should you be called take some branch of the service that is not so hard as the infantry.
Say what does Aunt May have to say about me know? Does she ever mention my name? I hope she has a better opinion of me as I have done my bit for my country.
You want to save up some money, for I am coming home dead broke, and will have to touch you for a loan to get started on. I have a Liberty Bond, though and that is some saved.
I want you to give my love to all, and tell them I am not seriously wounded, and still in hopes of coming home soon.
JOHN M. BERTRAND
Private
NOTES: He is writing to his brother W. I. Bertrand on October 12, 1918.
TRANSCRIBED BY MIKE POLSTON
I am in a hospital but just fine. Got a machine gun bullet through my right arm, but the wound is not serious, so I am coming on fine now. We have the boche on the run and I hope they stay that way, and this war will soon be over, for it is going to be furious over here this winter, as it is so damp and cold in this country in winter.
The central power is cracking and I hope the good work will keep up.
I have had several letters from home, and you can bet I was glad to get them, as news from home is the sweetest thing we can receive over here. I am glad to know that all at home are well, and you have your raise. I also hope that you will not be drafted, for you have a family, and there are lots of single boys in the states yet. Should you be called take some branch of the service that is not so hard as the infantry.
Say what does Aunt May have to say about me know? Does she ever mention my name? I hope she has a better opinion of me as I have done my bit for my country.
You want to save up some money, for I am coming home dead broke, and will have to touch you for a loan to get started on. I have a Liberty Bond, though and that is some saved.
I want you to give my love to all, and tell them I am not seriously wounded, and still in hopes of coming home soon.
JOHN M. BERTRAND
Private
NOTES: He is writing to his brother W. I. Bertrand on October 12, 1918.
TRANSCRIBED BY MIKE POLSTON